Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Associated Press
ATLANTA
Attention, coach passengers. Continental Airlines, which used to boast about giving away free hamburgers and barbecue while rivals passed out tiny bags of pretzels, is changing its tune on food.
Continental plans to launch a food-for-sale program that mirrors what other carriers are already doing.
A spokesman said Monday that the airline, based in Houston, expects a $35 million annual benefit, from cost savings and added revenue.
Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, US Airways and United Airlines are among carriers that already charge for food on flights.
Continental passengers on some international routes, on domestic flights over six hours and those who sit in first or business class on routes worldwide will continue to get free food.
Snacks such as pretzels and nonalcoholic drinks will still be free for all.
The changes take effect in the fall. Menu choices and prices will be disclosed later.
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